In Loving Memory ~
It is with great sadness that our family announces the passing of Mary Elizabeth Ritzen.
Mary was born on November 7, 1931 in Bellevue, Alberta. At the young age of 17, she moved to Fort McLeod in search of more opportunities. This worked out very well as it was there that she met Ed Ritzen whom she married on October 6, 1951.
Mary and Ed enjoyed all of life's adventures together - children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, work, travelling the world and finally retiring in Qualicum Beach, B.C. - until Ed's death on March 2, 2021.
Mary loved her family and worked hard to care for us. She was a fabulous cook and made sure that we were well fed. Her home was always in immaculate condition. Wherever she lived, Mary easily met people who became life long friends. She loved to organize events for family and friends and ensured that everyone had their favourite foods to enjoy. She had an amazing memory and would regale us with interesting and humorous stories of the past.
Mary is survived by her children, Deb (Noel) Charchuk, Doug (Barb), and Jeff (Marisa); grandchildren, Tori (Rob), Andrew (Marie), Lexie, Ted, Laura (Tyler), Janina (Jason) and Benjamin; great grandchildren, Owen, Sylvie, Cale, Billie, Raf, Parker and Cole. We will all miss her dearly but are fortunate to have so many good memories of our time with her.
Our family thanks the staff at the Qualicum Manor who cared for Mary over the past 3 years. They treated her with kindness and incredible compassion. We also thank her very special friend, Allison Bell, who assisted and comforted Mary in so many ways and added immensely to her quality of life.
We are forever grateful to all of you.